Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Saturday 18 May 2024, Her Majesty’s Theatre, South Australia
Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre hosted the timeless allure of Engelbert Humperdinck last night! His name alone evokes an era of romance and melody, and his 2024 Australian tour is nothing short of a spectacular homage to his enduring legacy. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, this tour is a must-see event that promises to deliver unforgettable memories.
The Voice That Time Forgot
Engelbert’s voice, rich and velvety, remains as captivating as ever. From the moment he steps on stage, the audience is transported back to the golden age of music. His opened the show and captured us immediately, setting the tone for an evening of pure nostalgia from the first couple of songs. Each note was delivered with the same passion and precision that made him a star in the 1960s. It’s a rare gift to hear an artist whose voice defies the passage of time, and Engelbert certainly possesses that magic.
A Masterful Performer
What truly sets Engelbert apart is his charisma and stage presence AND he’s bloody funny. He interacts with the audience with a warmth that feels genuine and heartfelt. His anecdotes between songs are filled with humor and wisdom, offering glimpses into his illustrious career. There’s a twinkle in his eye as he recounts stories from his early days, and the crowd hangs on every word.
A Stellar Setlist
The setlist is a well-curated mix of his greatest hits and delightful surprises. Classics like ‘The Last Waltz’ and ‘A Man Without Love’ had the audience swaying and singing along. But it was his rendition of ‘Quando, Quando, Quando’ that truly brought the house down. The arrangement was fresh yet faithful to the original, showcasing Engelbert’s ability to reinvent his music while staying true to its roots. Simply Red’s ‘If You Don’t Know Me By Now’ went down a right treat BUT his song for his late wife, Patricia, played our heart strings, ‘Release Me’ is a song that encompasses all that is pure love, and I do believe he had a genuine tear in his eye during this performance.
An Impressive Band
Engelbert’s band deserves a special mention. The musicians were in perfect sync, providing a lush backdrop that complemented his vocals beautifully. The orchestration was exquisite, with each instrument adding a layer of depth to the performance. It’s clear that Engelbert surrounds himself with top-notch talent, enhancing the overall concert experience. Not even a tech issue with his musical director’s keys slowed the pace down, he took it in his stride and blissfully bantered with us all.
A Personal Touch
One of the highlights of the evening was when Engelbert handed out his hankerchiefs. It was a touching moment that highlighted his connection with his fans. He genuinely enjoys making people feel special, and this personal touch added an extra layer of charm to the show. It almost appeared the gentleman and old-school showman didn’t want to leave us, he comes to life on stage and he knows it.
Wrapping It Up
Engelbert Humperdinck’s 2024 Australian tour is a testament to his enduring appeal and timeless talent. A sold-out house is proof of that. It’s a celebration of music that transcends generations, bringing joy and nostalgia to all who attend. Whether you’re reliving fond memories or creating new ones, this concert is an experience you won’t want to miss.
So, if you find yourself with the opportunity to see Engelbert live, seize it. It’s not just a concert; it’s a journey through the soundtrack of our lives (my parents owned the vinyls), led by a maestro who knows exactly how to touch our hearts. Here’s to many more years of Engelbert Humperdinck, the voice that continues to serenade the world. While the title of the tour is ‘The Last Waltz’, he teased us that it might not yet be…
